Heathrow Greenlights Work on Third Runway Planning

Heathrow Airport has approved new investment to start work on a planning application for a third runway, marking a key development in the long-term expansion of the UK’s busiest airport.

Heathrow Airport has approved new investment to start work on a planning application for a third runway, marking a key development in the long-term expansion of the UK’s busiest airport.

The decision comes as critical regulatory and policy milestones in 2026 are expected to influence whether the project can advance to the next stage. Heathrow says the planning work will support efforts to increase airport capacity, boost connectivity and underpin economic growth across the UK.

A third runway at Heathrow has long been proposed to address growing demand for air travel and to secure the airport’s role as a global hub. The approval to commence planning reflects progress in developing detailed proposals and preparing for the extensive regulatory review process ahead.

Airport officials have emphasised the potential benefits of expansion, including new routes, increased competition, and broader access for airlines and passengers, as well as supporting jobs and investment across the aviation supply chain.

Industry observers note that the project’s next phases — including submission of formal plans and securing government and planning consent — will be crucial in determining whether Heathrow can ultimately build the third runway, an initiative seen as central to the UK’s aviation infrastructure strategy.

The move follows a strong operational performance in 2025, during which Heathrow reported record passenger numbers and continued improvements in service punctuality, strengthening the case made by airport leaders for the need to expand capacity.